Jain Journal 1991 04

Author(s): Jain Bhawan Publication
Publisher: Jain Bhawan Publication

Page 34

Power and Tranquility-a Profile of
Jaina Martial Class of Karnataka
Vasantha Kumari
The hillock of Katavapra region, which became a renowned Jaina Centre, is most popularly known to the Jaina Community as Sravaņabelagolā. It was the nucleus of Jaina ascetic activities as early as 3rd Century B. C. The highly moderate climate and the favourable physical feature of South India, and particularly of Karnataka was indeed found suitable for the ascetic activities, to lead the most useful life of their austerities. An atmosphere of harmony which prevailed in this part of India, encouraged them to undertake Jainising Campaign mo actively. The local population living on varied tribal cults, were influenced in considerable numbers, under more progressive and humanistic frame-work of ahimsā cult. These events caused more significant political effects, and consequently two kingdoms emerged under Jaina auspices ; one was the Gangas of Talakad and the second, the Hoysālas of Dwarasamudra. Together, their rule lasted for nearly one thousand years from 3rd Century A.D. to 14th Century A.D. More strikingly it was during this period that the military concept received great encouragement and was effectively put to action by the Jaina rulers without any inhibition. As such many excelled in their abilities as great military commanders, generals and warriors.
These two kingdoms which emerged in the southern region of Karnataka, were the master creations of the efforts and shrewd acts of eminent Jaina Ācāryas of the period. Simhanandi Ācārya while placing the crown of Gangavadi-96,000 on Didiga and Mahādeva, also introduced sine-qua-non changes as to add more vigour and strength to the newly established kingdom. This kingdom emerged, having victory as their motto in the battlefield, Jinendra as their god, and Jina Matha as their faith.
Simhanandi Ācārya having successfully played the role of kingmaker, issued 'the moral-ethical code' and 'the charter of patriotism